Cast
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Director
- Tom Santschi
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Great Experiment examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Tom Santschi brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1915, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Great Experiment took approximately 22 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 20 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 41 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 33 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1915, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Great Experiment shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Wings of Youth, which focuses more on action than character development, The Great Experiment subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Reckless Sex and Hop - The Devil's Brew explore similar territory, The Great Experiment stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 19, 1915
- Runtime: 20m